Dawn Schreiner Illustration

Chinese New Year

2012-01-23T11:34:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year! It's the year of the dragon, which happens to be the sign I was born under. What sign are you born under? It's fun to read all the qualities one is supposed to possess under each animal. Here's a link to what it means to be born under the sign of Dragon: http://www.usbridalguide.com/special/chinesehoroscopes/Dragon.htm

the illustration was created for my friends who sell watercress, which we should all eat more of. Below is the final illustration with it's Chinese New Year greeting.

Here's a link to read more about watercress and it's benefits:

http://www.watercress.com/

A sad day for history

2012-01-17T12:28:00.002-05:00

On Monday (1/16/12) the state of Florida lost one of it's most significant historical treasures. You can read about it here: http://abcnews.go.com/blogs/headlines/2012/01/3500-year-old-tree-nicknamed-the-senator-burns-to-the-ground/

January

2012-01-15T17:51:00.000-05:00

This has been a fantastic January so far. I've been very busy with commissions and commercial illustration work. I will share the commercial stuff once it's published, but until then, here's some of my latest doodles:

J.R.R. Tolkien has a January birthday.

A poster design for a high school play.

Henri de Toulous-Lautrec's paintings are always a wonderful source of inspiration. I decided to doodle him, when I was thinking about him one day.

The true story of the adventure of my son's bed.

I have become an advocate for education in Florida. This is one of many doodles I've done for that purpose.

Hope you are having a successful January too!

Happy 2012

2012-01-08T11:12:00.002-05:00

Christmas time is here...

2011-12-20T09:58:00.000-05:00

Last year, the week before Christmas, these were the daily doodles. No matter what holiday you celebrate, may the joy and love of family and friends surround you.

Peace.

Art on Tap and Christmas doodles

2011-12-09T10:43:00.001-05:00

Art on Tap was a show I did recently with 5 other artists. It was a fantastic fun time had by all. The venue was wonderful (even helped promote the show by posting photos of art on their Facebook page) and the weather was spectacular.

A friend of mine stopped by, and she wrote a post about her experience: http://sighforlove.blogspot.com/2011/12/art-on-tap.html

The Darth Vader/Storm Trooper walk painting sold, and the main reason was the buyer saw the art on the Taps Facebook page:

I've been doing some Christmas doodling. Here's a few:

It was Ira Gershwin's birthday, so had to do a doodle.

This year I put some doodles on greeting cards, you can check them out when you click the link to my Etsy site.

These are "floral picks" I created for the garden challenged. I can't seem to keep plants alive, especially indoors. So, I made these to add color, and no plants are harmed in the making of them.

More Star Fashions

2011-10-17T11:45:00.000-04:00

Inspired by Star Wars characters and victorian gowns.

2011-09-15T10:38:00.000-04:00

I've started a new series called: Star Fashion. It is a silly frolic with Star Wars characters and vintage fashion.

There are more to come, so check back soon!

A Night In June

2011-09-08T20:21:00.000-04:00

I was thrilled to be part of Timucua, or the White House. Benoit Glazer and his family host a unique experience in their home. It is the best music, in a room with THE best acoustics in a home that is THE most beautiful white house I've seen.

Here's a small clip of the night in June, that I was lucky enough to paint along with the beautiful music. Also featured is clarinetist Christine Barron.

Orlando Arts Magazine

2011-09-05T17:09:00.000-04:00

I'm so honored to be in the "Artist Spotlight" in Orlando Arts Magazine. It's a free bi monthly periodical that is full of all sorts of art going on in Central Florida. It is worth reading anytime, but I'm especially excited about the September/October issue!

End of August

2011-08-31T09:38:00.000-04:00

The end of August. How did that happen? One child in 3rd grade, one in 9th. I have lots of new opportunities, posters, puppets, paintings and commissions. In the meantime, here's some doodles:

Have you heard Adele? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lazyDlfaptM

A personal favorite, Buster Keaton. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53FSGl1yev8&feature=related

A special request doodle for a special friend.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D67kmFzSh_o&feature=related

Recently, it was Elvis. Costello's birthday. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vs6HbYit5-A

She could never be a saint, but she thought she could be a martyr if they killed her quick."
— Flannery O'Connor

Do you know Lauren Cooper? British humor.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPBaG4oXFdY&NR=1

This was inspired by the riots in London, but is good advice for just about anyone.

Pee Wee

2011-07-28T09:31:00.000-04:00

here's a doodle from WAY back. I just found out about a whole show of Pee Wee art.
You can visit here: http://g1988.blogspot.com/2011/07/i-know-you-art-but-what-am-i.html
Here's my Pee Wee tribute:

Norway

2011-07-25T11:48:00.000-04:00

It is incomprehensible that someone could plan to kill children. I am stunned by the recent events in Norway. The bombing killed several, but the shooting killed many more, and mostly children.
As a mother, I don't know how the parents of those children will cope with their horrific loss.
I pray they are able to find peace.

The Patron Saint of Children.

Happy Saturday

2011-07-23T11:35:00.000-04:00

Hello!
It's a work day for me, but that's okay. Luckily, I love my work!
I'm constantly looking for vintage frames, and one of my goals today, is to find and buy some.
Sometimes the frames cost too much, and I can't justify the investment. I usually love those frames
the most.
Here are some that I have:

The messy truth. I do have a few frames, but not ENOUGH! Never enough. There's also a bunch of other odds and ends that needs organizing, but surely someone else will come in and take care of that...

Lately, I've been doing a series based on the antics of my cat, YumYum.

Here's a few samples:

And, the real thing:

Trouble.

Wowza

2011-07-06T17:55:00.000-04:00

A couple of weeks ago, I got a great opportunity. I was invited to be interviewed on Orange TV, a local television station that help promotes art and artists. I had a bunch of fun, met some really nice people and now I can't watch. But if you want to, you can: http://www.orangetvfl.net/participate-the-cultural-advantage/dawn-schreiner-video_832341128.html

Here's some of the art that was featured on the show:

Audubon Center for Birds of Prey

2011-06-29T09:57:00.000-04:00

Have you been to the Audubon Center in Maitland (or your city)? I take my kids occasionally, and it's always a wonderful experience. The commitment that the staff and volunteers have for the birds is remarkable. We are always in awe of the peaceful sanctuary that has been created on behalf of these majestic creatures. Even the vultures are beautiful.
One of the paintings I did for the Maitland History show, is in honor of the Center:

The image is painted on a projection screen. I learned so much about how the Audubon Center came to be, when I started digging into it's history. Herons & egrets were seriously endangered, due to their lovely feathers (and how they looked on hats). The Dommerich's (a prominent wealthy family in Maitland) and some of their friends were so shocked by the amount of birds being killed in Central Florida alone, that they got together and funded the Center. Today, thanks in a large part to their efforts, the birds are thriving.

here, another look at the Audubon piece and the map of Maitland that I created.

If you haven't been to the Center yet, I encourage you to check out their website, and consider a trip out. It's not only good for the birds, but I am always amazed at how calm and happy I feel on my way home.

http://fl.audubon.org/who_centers_CBOP.html

A Thursday in June

2011-06-23T15:04:00.000-04:00

Not the Third Thursday, however. That was last week. I know because I was at an event in Thornton Park for the monthly Third Thursday Art Walk. I was invited by the delightful "Lambs Eat Ivy" salon, to show my work inside and out.
Here are a few photos from the evening:

The salon is lovely, here you can see the beautiful front courtyard.

Two of my paintings in between stylist's stations.

A Big painting that is hanging in the hall.

One of the paintings in between stylists.

Big painting on front wall of salon.

Reel to reel boxes at The Boss's station.

Coffee + Doodles = Heaven

Some of my screens for outside show.

Two more.

It was so fun, and I think I might just do it again on the next Third Thursday.

Busy busy Spring

2011-04-25T17:56:00.000-04:00

I LOVE to be busy! I have been, too.
A mask design

and a huge commitment in a solo show, "Maitland History Illustrated"

Here's a few samples. I made over 30 paintings, both acrylic and watercolor.

Plus one screen, with enamel.

Some busy Saturday

2011-03-29T18:29:00.000-04:00

Last Friday (March 25th) was the beginning of pARTicipation (http://maitlandartcenter.com/upcoming-events/170-open-house-winter-2011.html). I, along with a variety of other artists, worked in the garden, and mingled. This Saturday, I will be at Bloomingdales (Millenia) in the morning (http://www.orlandoslice.com/xn/detail/2911752:Event:79795?xg_source=activity) and then, dinner in the garden at Maitland Art Center, to close pARTicipation.

In the meantime, I'm working on a show that will be at the Maitland History Museum, "Maitland History Illustrated: Works by Dawn Schreiner". So busy.

All the time, I've also been working on daily doodles, here's a sampling;

Tribute to the inimitable Elizabeth Taylor

Judy Garland singing " Forget your troubles, c'mon get happy)

My son recently did a famous person speech, he chose to be Walt Disney. He tried to convince me to provide him with a candy cigarette for the performance. I declined.

I created the Bird Chandelier series a few years ago. I decided to get back to it.

Forget your Troubles • Madame Butterfly

2011-03-23T16:16:00.000-04:00

C'mon get happy... The subject of a doodle, and a wonderful song.

And another song, really a composer, Puccini,

who gave us the opera Madame Butterfly

and my new haircut...

Happy Wednesday.

Mardi Gras and Poirot

2011-03-08T14:11:00.000-05:00

Poirot, my favorite sleuth, from the immensely talented Agatha Christie, seems to go hand in hand with Mardi Gras.

happy FAT TUESDAY!

I'm also including a link to the next art show I'm lucky enough to be in:

http://maitlandartcenter.com/upcoming-events/170-open-house-winter-2011.html

Watercolors

2011-03-07T08:51:00.000-05:00

Lately, I've been practicing with watercolors for the daily doodle on Facebook. I am using acrylics, also, but for paintings I am creating for a show at the Maitland History Center, so those are TOP secret.. : )
I need the practice with watercolors (and goauche, even more so), and it allows more time for the paintings, while not neglecting the daily doodle. Here are a few examples, I need to perfect scanning techniques for this media. More practice:

The presidents doodle finally is getting the sketchbook spine out of the way. Back to practice.

I've been busy, how about you?

2011-02-24T18:09:00.001-05:00

2 art shows down, two to go. I enjoyed, as always, the Mennello Museum of Art's Folk Art Festival, and experienced the Orlando Art & Living Expo for the first time last weekend. One I will do again, the other, not. One thing these art shows teach me, is who my audience is.
Here's a video of my booth at the Mennello show:

My tent at the Expo looked very similar:

doodles on the reel to reel boxes on the green shelf, and here, in the tub:

Next, I will be one of the artists in the pARTicipation program (end of March) at the Maitland Art & History Center, then will have a solo show in the Maitland History Center at the end of April.

Show busy show nuff

2011-02-15T15:37:00.000-05:00

I am in between shows this week. Last weekend was a great, beautiful show at the Mennello Museum of American Art:

Photo of my work, courtesy of thedailycity.com

The next show is downtown Orlando, the art and living expo. Here's the link: http://www.downtownorlandoproperties.com/

Hope to see you there!

Hi there • Art & History

2011-02-03T08:22:00.000-05:00

I'm busily preparing for three art shows coming up. 2 of which are in February. Here's a list:

http://www.mennellomuseum.com/festival.html
The annual folk art festival at the Mennello Museum, a beautiful and inspiring setting.
February 12, 13 9:30-5:30 each day.

http://www.downtownorlandoproperties.com/downtown_expo.htm
The downtown art and living expo. I've never done this show before, so looking forward to my first shot at it. All around Lake Eola, February 19/20 from 11-6 each day.

Then, in April, http://maitlandhistory.org/ The Maitland History Museum. I am planning an exciting show and will have more information as the date draws near.

I've been painting lots of doodles. I'll just post one, and you are always invited to visit the doodles on Facebook.

Hello stranger • Wordpress

2011-01-06T09:00:00.000-05:00

Hi there,
I haven't posted here in a very long time, but wanted to check in. I have an almost daily Wordpress entry, and the daily doodle on Facebook. Also, working on new paintings and all sorts of things for two shows coming up.
The annual Mennello Museum of American Art Folk Art Show and (Feb. 12-13)
The Orlando Downtown Art & Living Expo. (Feb. 19-20).

The main objective for 2011, is to make it a "wonder" year. To recall that feeling from youth, of discovery and excitement. There is still so much to learn, see and do. I can't wait to get started.

Happy New Year!

Will it one day be cold enough to snow in Florida?

2010-12-19T10:00:00.000-05:00

Last week my thermometer read 27 degrees. That's Ohio cold. As a Floridian, I am not adequately prepared for these temperatures. I don't own the clothing and I don't have the skill set required to handle the cold with diplomacy and grace. In other words, it's not pretty. One day I wore 8 shirts. 8. That is just sad.
So, as some comfort, a little lagniappe, I ask; how about some snow? That would distract me from the fact that I look ridiculous.
So, let's sign a petition to the Snow Miser.
Are you in?

Hi there

2010-10-20T14:50:00.000-04:00

Been busy painting and working for the House of Blues Show. I think I will be so exhausted when it's said and done. Hope you're well, don't forget to visit my new blog: http://www.dawnschreiner.com/blog/ if you get a chance.

Good bye to Happy Days

Hello You lookin' for me?

2010-10-15T12:36:00.000-04:00

Hi there,
I made some new stickers, as you can see. I just added these to my shop. You can go to my website: http://www.dawnschreiner.com and click "shop" to see. Also, you can see my new blog there, too. Just select blog, and if you have a minute, say hello.

Bag art // Subscribe to my new blog

2010-10-08T09:46:00.000-04:00

The Maitland Art & History Center is hosting a gala event this evening' Groovy in the Grove. They will pass out these bags to the attendees. Totally tubular that I got to do the art for them!

You can now subscribe to my blog via email, so you can art delivered right to your inbox. I switched to wordpress, but you don't have to, to get it:

http://www.dawnschreiner.com/blog/

Just subscribe and I'll send you stuff every day, except maybe Sundays, when I rest. Sort of.

Will you move with me? Please??

2010-10-05T10:52:00.003-04:00

First, a BIG thank you (Tom Hanks was in "Big", remember? I need to remember to come back and pick that joke up off the floor) for following along with my blog posts. Now, I have a BIG favor to ask....

My web designer has revamped (punny) my website for October, and in doing so has changed my blog address from blogger to wordpress. Will you consider coming over there for updates? I'd sure miss you if you didn't come along. Here's my new address:
http://www.dawnschreiner.com/blog
You can see the new website here: http://www.dawnschreiner.com

If you really prefer I keep adding posts here, let me know. For now, I'm still moving boxes and decorating my new blog home.

Spot illustration // fall is here

2010-10-04T16:14:00.000-04:00

I did this quick little doodle today. No one dresses up like this do they? And why not? Why must Halloween costumes be so complicated and worse, expensive?

Today, in Maitland, Florida, it actually feels like fall. It is a sparkling, beautiful day. It's warm for fall if you live up north, but for those of us in Central Florida, it's a such a nice change from 95 degree days and humidity that causes a person to get damp immediately upon exiting air conditioning.

Now, I'm going to go enjoy it.

Another day another leaf

2010-10-02T09:20:00.000-04:00

This leaf is not really a leaf but a paper bag cut to look like a leaf. That's really a black cat, however.

Happy October! // I love fall

2010-10-01T08:38:00.000-04:00

I couldn't find a leaf I liked in Central Florida, so I cut one out of a paper bag. Happy October 1st.

Tony Curtis

2010-09-30T13:46:00.002-04:00

Tribute to a great actor and artist

New Stickers coming // mom stuff

2010-09-30T08:51:00.000-04:00

This little do gooder is on her way to becoming a sticker. With some of her sisters. I'll write when they are available in my Etsy shop, so you can check them out while saying a "Hail Mary".

I have a busy mom day, so a short post today. Happy last day of September.

Chickens // dead thing // Halloween

2010-09-29T10:58:00.000-04:00

The girls love to eat the bird food put out for the cardinals and their friends. They can have a complete full container of their food, but it will be completely bypassed for the tasty wild bird food.

Here they are, the beggars, waiting for the bird seed to be put out. That's Squishy in the foreground, the champion egg layer. Blaze our "Teacup" chicken, she is the alpha. And Kitty who lays the prettiest green eggs, but only when she feels like it, which isn't very often.

There is a horrible odor emanating from the wall in my sons room. Something has crawled in there and breathed its last. Just in time for the Halloween season, we have a "dead smell" to invite it in. We looked up in the attic, but of course couldn't find anything. The wall is almost impossible to get into, and would need to be cut open to deal with this creepy little issue. It will surely get worse before it gets better.

Critter Trap // the Bridge

2010-09-27T19:34:00.000-04:00

We set the trap again. This time we caught this unhappy cat. I don't know if it's a boy or girl. There's no getting near to this animal, as this is truly a wild animal. It is a beautiful creature. It hisses almost constantly. I was able to get this photo by standing far away and zooming in for this picture.

This cat has tried to eat my chickens, and actually is the cat that got our sweet little Summer.

I took a bike ride today, and went over the bike bridge. I know there's actually a name for it, but I haven't a clue what it is. It is over 17-92 right before (or after, depending on which way you are going) Mayo Avenue. I love to stand at the top and watch cars. A train track goes beneath too, but I have only seen one train go under. It was LOUD, and fun to watch. Here's a photo I took today with my phone. Wonder where everyone is going...

Masks // Halloween

2010-09-26T09:05:00.000-04:00

I'm a sucker for Halloween. Always have been. Yesterday I made five one of a kind masks, and one already sold on Etsy!
The Fox Mask. The first one I made yesterday was the first to sell. It was nice to wake up to the email telling me it sold. Off to make more masks.

Here's my Etsy site so you can see the others: http://www.etsy.com/shop/DawnS

2010-09-24T15:58:00.002-04:00

Happy birthday to F. Scott Fitzgerald

Caught a possum today, in the critter cage.

We put it out in hopes of capturing some of the troublesome (and pregnant) feral cats in our neighborhood. The cats keep attacking my chickens, and they are the same ones that took my littlest chicken, Summer. I wrote about her in an earlier post here:

http://dawnschreiner.blogspot.com/2010/09/loss-of-chicken-dunce.html

a typical day in the life

2010-09-23T15:58:00.000-04:00

A typical day. Drive offspring to school, work out, draw/paint, take care of cat and chickens. Draw/paint, pick up offspring from school, make dinner.

Sleep. Hopefully.

Reject // House of Blues // bird // chick

2010-09-20T10:31:00.001-04:00

I've been working on an ad to put on my website for the House of Blues show. This is the reject. The ad I created will hopefully be up soon, via my web designer. Patience.

My series, Super Bird and Defenseless Chick, continues. Here is a sketch I did, but this is a reject idea, too. It's time to wrap this series up, so I can turn it into a little book. Still thinking.

Went to a funeral in Miami this weekend. A dear friend lost her mother to breast cancer.

This is the view from our hotel window. It was lovely, but hard to appreciate on such a sad occasion.

Let's help find a cure.

a sketch // pen & ink // doodle contest

2010-09-17T12:09:00.000-04:00

How about a free doodle? Come join the doodles, invite your friends. Whoever invites the most new DSi members, wins a free doodle. Easy? Well, darn tootin'.

I'll share another pen & ink study. Still no thick/thin lines. One day they'll come, I just know it.

Helmet // Bike // Peacock

2010-09-16T10:58:00.000-04:00

I painted my helmet to go with my doodle scooter, but I use it for bike riding too. It is my bird chandelier series. It used to be just a black helmet, so it's actually cooler now. Both ways "cool". It's fun having a painted head.

I've had this bike for 15 years. It has been a good friend and taken me all the places I want to go. I can't keep up with the bike clubs (all in their bike gear, wearing proper bike attire). I usually wear my tshirt with the holes in it (air conditioning) and try and keep up, but this bike was meant to be a loner.

On this bike I met my peacock friend.

Today I stopped by to say hello. He shed his long, lovely tail feathers, so was shy about showing his normally stunning backside. I promised to get another picture when his new feathers grow in.

Sketch // pen and ink // tea

2010-09-15T08:30:00.000-04:00

I've been practicing with my old ink pen. It's only by some sort of miracle that this doodle isn't covered with ink. I make such a mess with this pen. Ink is all over my fingers and the pen is covered, too. There must be something I don't know, for surely when this was the only kind of pen people had, they managed to stay ink free. They were all dressed much better than me, too. Sigh.

lady // victorian // doodle

2010-09-14T13:21:00.000-04:00

A modern doodle inspired by a victorian piece of clip art I stumbled upon. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the fashion gods that we no longer require wearing a corset to go out in public.

Birthday // Birds // Facebook Greetings // bunny

2010-09-13T13:11:00.002-04:00

This is one of a handful of birthday doodles I have created. I made them so I could send doodles to my friends on Facebook, on their birthday. I have had some confusion with some folks thinking the doodle is a gift to them, or that it is their own personal doodle. When I first created the birthday art, it never occurred to me that this might happen. So, I have tried to be chivalrous about it, and tell friends that the doodle is in honor of celebrating their birthday, but is shared with every one. I always feel so bad afterwards. I have over 800 friends on Facebook, so making every one their very own doodle, all the while keeping up with the daily doodle, is out of the question. However, I have sold some of my birthday doodles. All doodles are for sale, so when someone asks, I jump! I must say, the majority of friends just say thank you, and don't ever think another thing of it.

This one sold to a dear childhood friend of mine. She has been gracious enough to not yell when I keep using it as a birthday greeting on Facebook.

This one was one of those "Thank you for making me my very own birthday doodle" scenarios.

It all worked out, and now has a happy home with it's doodle owner.

Muffins // Maurice Chevalier // happy Birthday

2010-09-12T15:41:00.000-04:00

Here's a really bad cell phone photo of the cinnamon sugar muffins I made this morning. As you see, they were irresistible, for while I was getting my phone to take the picture, some little thief came along and stole two. Well, there's still some left for coffee in the morning, so I can't complain.

Today is the birthday of legendary screen star, Maurice Chavelier. I've always been charmed by his singing , too.

the loss of a chicken // dunce

2010-09-11T12:16:00.000-04:00

Here, I was visiting a pioneer town in Florida, donning the cap of shame. I post this photo today, because I have truly been a dunce. Last night, I went to bed, forgetting to check the chicken coop. Because I forgot, one of my chickens is missing this morning. There's little evidence to what occurred. The little sign the chick liked to sit on in the coop is on the ground, and that's it. No feathers. No other visible clue as to what might have happened. I am heavy hearted that I was so irresponsible. The chicken paid for it.

Here's a baby picture of our little lost girl. So sorry little chicken. We will miss you.

Where in the world is Snookie? // doodle

2010-09-10T13:45:00.004-04:00

This is Snookie. Her doodle is a commissioned doodle as a gift to her. (Isn't that nice?)

Read about Snookie: http://www.marinediscoverycenter.org

and why on earth she got a gift doodle, and find out,

"Where in the World is Snookie".

My favorite blogger // doodles // gift shop

2010-09-09T12:11:00.000-04:00

My saints are among a myriad of goodies I am taking up to the Maitland Art & History Center. They have graciously invited me to put some of my work in their gift shop.

I want to share a treasure. A true gem, that I enjoy every day. The best blog, the one I most look forward to reading, is: http://thepioneerwoman.com/blog/2010/09/ten-important-things-ive-learned-about-blogging/

This link actually shares some valuable tips to blogging, like icing on the cake.

Back to the doodles, and making new art for the folk art show.

vintage photo doodle

2010-09-08T11:57:00.001-04:00

A watercolor study of one adorable little vintage baby.

Doodle Contest

2010-09-07T16:03:00.000-04:00

Anyone can win a free doodle. If you're not a member yet, come on over and join.

Then bring over all your friends and we'll have some fun.

http://tinyurl.com/2eexve3

sketch // paint // doodle

2010-09-07T11:21:00.002-04:00

A sketch from my sketch book. The mark on the left is the binding of my tiny sketch book.

Should have fixed that, but there it is.

I am trying to work out a schedule where I sketch for the blog, doodle for networking and paint for shows. It doesn't sound like much, but I am having such a hard time getting each done every day. I have always worked at night, but very casually. Now I am aiming to make the night hours more productive. I find myself thinking of all the days and nights misspent in my youth. Ah well, if I hadn't done it then I might be doing it now, and that just wouldn't do.

illustration // character development// Labor Day

2010-09-06T08:50:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I do little characters. This one is a little sad, but that is so you can make up your own story, as to why. Hope you have a safe and peaceful Labor Day.

Bed Bugs // funk

2010-09-04T10:36:00.002-04:00

I've been hearing a lot of stories about bed bugs on the radio and in the news. Seems there is a resurgence of these critters. Did you know, if you set your suitcase next to a bed that has bed bugs, the bugs will get into your luggage and go home with you? Most folks, first thing they do is put their luggage on their beds at home to unpack. And that is how it starts. Turns out the hard part isn't the getting bit (that is, however, the disturbing part), it's how to get rid of them. That's something I haven't had to figure out yet, thankfully. There's a site: bedbugregistry.com, where folks who've visited hotels and motels, can note if they had a problem. Then, you can check it to make sure the hotel you've booked isn't one that has had an outbreak.

In other news, I'm very excited about my opportunity to be a participating artist at The House Of Blues Folk Art Festival. That's not the actual title, but I initial capped the letters anyway. I am in a funk, however, and I can't shake it. I need to get to work and start creating new pieces, but seem to be more in the mood to kick rocks and pull weeds. I know, this will pass, and soon I will be able to share new art with you.

I decided to take the music off the blog. I suspect, if it was bugging (not bed bugging) me, then it most likely would bug you.

Sarah Orne Jewett // Writers Almanac

2010-09-03T11:40:00.001-04:00

I read about Sarah Orne Jewett in my daily email from: http://writersalmanac.publicradio.org/

It's the birthday of Sarah Orne Jewett, (books by this author) born in 1849 in South Berwick, Maine. She wrote stories about the ships and fisherman of the coastal villages in 19th-century Maine. Her best-known book is the short novel The Country of the Pointed Furs.
The writings of Sarah Orne Jewett are now considered by many scholars to be very early lesbian literature. Her novels were heavily focused on female bonds and companionships. She lived for most of her adult life with Annie Adams Fields, who was 15 years her senior and a big part of the Boston literary scene at the time.
Sarah Orne Jewett said, "God would not give us the same talent if what were right for men were wrong for women." -Writer's Almanac for Friday, September 9th, 2010.

Maitland Art and History Center // doodles

2010-09-02T14:33:00.000-04:00

Here's a little (quick) sketch I did of the Maitland Art Center. The RS on the building stands for "Research Studio", which is a big part of the Maitland Art Center's history. I am making an Anniversary dinner for my parents tonight, and working on doodles. Happy Anniversary mom & dad.

Street art / House of Blues / Busy

2010-09-01T10:25:00.000-04:00

I saw this woman standing on a street in Winter Park, Florida yesterday. She captured my attention, but I couldn't stop the car and draw her, so I did this from memory. I wonder what was in the bag?

I found out yesterday that I got in to the House of Blues Folk Art Show!! I have wanted to get in and had heard it was near impossible. Let the cartwheels begin.

So, I'm busy. Got a meeting tomorrow. I'll say more if it turns into gold.

Happy Tuesday.

imagination // music // inspiration

2010-08-31T10:46:00.000-04:00

Here's a little figment of my imagination. Sometimes I think of these scenarios and I sketch them out. Other times I either don't have a pencil and paper, or haven't the time to doodle. This one is something I've been thinking about, a cruelty free circus, performers being the stubborn, but talented, cat.

What do you think of the addition of music to the blog? I can't decide if I like it. Music can make or break a site, so it's risky business putting the player on here. My taste of music may not be yours, so if that's the case, just mute it, please don't go away.

I am searching for inspiration today. I have some paintings I need to work on, but haven't quite gotten the compositions down. Also, need to be inspired for the daily doodles. Off I go, in search of the magic I'm looking for.

2010-08-30T11:07:00.001-04:00

My daughter is a great artist. She actually sent me the art you see here, via email, with a note:

hi moms its elena i have somthin 4 u i hope u like it its not specifically yours, mebbe u can post it somewhere?

So, here is the art, not specifically mine, but posted. Somewhere.

2010-08-28T09:29:00.003-04:00

I made these little birds a while back. I promptly gave them away, as gifts.

braces // baby

2010-08-27T12:32:00.000-04:00

My baby girl (13) got braces yesterday. It was exciting and bittersweet. She is so excited that one day soon she will no longer have an overbite, but her teeth have been aching and sore. It's bittersweet for me because she is in pain, she's growing up and she is being so responsible and mature.

Where did my baby go? In that sweet little baby's place, is this charming, smart and beautiful young lady.

Gulp.

Allium / hydrangea / doodly do

2010-08-26T10:19:00.000-04:00

Allium. I think that's what this is called. I think they are fantastic. I can't grow them in Florida. I haven't actually tried, but plants all have growing zones (heat/cold tolerance) and these are not in my zone (9). I am growing hydrangeas, which I have tried several times, but this time actually is working. The flowers were pink last year, but this year are green (?). What have I done?

A quick doodle with my feather pen. Ugh.

teeth // saint doodle

2010-08-25T11:50:00.000-04:00

Little quickie sketch of St.Francis for an envelope. I put my name and address underneath the bowl of goodness. I went and got my teeth cleaned today, and it had been awhile. The budget has been stretching too thin, so teeth cleaning becomes a luxury. I was so thrilled to be able to get the old girls cleaned today. Pearly white. At least until I have my afternoon coffee.

Goose // Sketch // doodles

2010-08-24T13:38:00.001-04:00

I walk around a local lake (Lake Catherine), and I have had many interactions with this goose. He/she (as I haven't the slightest idea) "honks" when I say "hello". So I feel we are friends. I'm not sure how the goose feels, but I can only hope it's friendly honking.

I made this little sketch last night right before bed. I'm not sure where it's going or what it means. Just there it is. Now, back to the doodles.

Pylon art // braces// doodles

2010-08-23T11:17:00.000-04:00

I painted on a pylon (did I already tell you that?) Anyway, now I have five more, but they're broken down. As soon as I put them together, I will have a whole forest of these. Then, the biggest problem? Where to store them. That is the bane of my existence. Yesterday I was cleaning/organizing my studio and realize that storage is the biggest problem I have. Frankly, I haven't any place to put all the art I create, so my studio becomes a holding area, which, needless to say, makes creating even more art, a real challenge. Ah, what I would give for a basement. I could write a sonnet about how much I would love to have a basement, but I won't, as that is decidedly NOT where my talent lies.

My 13 year old got spacers in her teeth today. The first step to braces. The hardest part, well there's two hard parts. First, I can't bear to see her in pain. The second? I can't bear to see my wallet in such pain.

Well, off to doodles. Happy Monday...

A little piece of cardboard / Birds / chandeliers

2010-08-21T09:24:00.000-04:00

A little piece of cardboard sat staring at me. So I said, "what?" It said it needed a little something. I happen to have a strange fixation. I feel the need to put birds on all sorts of things, especially chandeliers (see it on my facebook page). So, the cardboard got a little bird. And a bust.

Art // Rocky Horror // practice

2010-08-20T14:28:00.000-04:00

Another day, another practice opportunity. I am trying to get a likeness again. Sometimes it's a time warp.

Line art // spot color // practice

2010-08-19T09:54:00.000-04:00

Today's doodle on Facebook is similar to this one. I was playing with line and spot color. I need to keep practicing, as I don't think this is very successful. One of the things I really respond to in other artist's work, is the mastery of line, the delicacy of detail and the sensitivity of the application.

So, I will practice, practice, practice.

Journal

2010-08-18T15:47:00.001-04:00

First day of school always brings frayed nerves, lots of supplies to organize and reminiscing about summer (which, technically, was just yesterday). My 7 year old was asked to keep a summer journal to be shared with his new 2nd grade class. It was never his favorite thing to do, and I admit, I let it slide many times. But last night, as I painted this picture on the front of his journal, I realized what a gift it is. We will always be able to look back at summer 2010, and have fond memories and some fun laughs at some of the stories and pictures inside.

have a seat // pink // giveaway

2010-08-17T09:24:00.000-04:00

Here is the chair I want. It is beautiful and I bet it is delightfully comfortable too. Pink has never been my favorite color, but the combination of the wood and the baroque style is just right with pink. I've had this picture for a long time, and can't remember where I found it, or I would give credit to the source.

More pink. Sort of. I did a doodle giveaway for valentine's day, and am thinking of doing one for Halloween. It is my favorite holiday, and here in Florida it isn't celebrated nearly as much as it is up north. I want to conjure a little magic of my own and get people excited about it. I wonder if a giveaway would do the trick? Right now I'm just considering, so I need to decide if I feel generous and if I will be able to part with the doodle. For this giveaway, I would only do one doodle, so I need to think of the twist. Last time it was based on choosing a favorite. This time, well, I need to figure that out. Any suggestions are welcome.

How about your own doodle?

2010-08-16T15:19:00.002-04:00

At the art show yesterday, there were kind, delightful people and there were people that maybe shouldn't go to art shows. Artists have a way of touching a nerve, annoying some people or some thinking "how could this be worth anything?", and saying so. "This is on cardboard, it's crap", or "this is stuff I could make". It's a reaction, just like the nice comments, like "your work is so whimsical", or "you have mastery". Yet, all I dwell on is the comments that were hurtful, petty and rude. It must be human nature, because I do not like to be negative as a rule.

One thing that offended some folks (and they said so) was my doodle of Pope John Paul II.

I call him "Dope Pope". That doesn't mean he is a "dope", or that I think he is absurd, rather it is simply using the twentieth century slang word for "cool', or "smart". He captured the imagination of my little girl, who claims she doesn't like religion. He was able to impress upon her his ideals and true heart. So, all the people who thought I was disrespecting the pope, will never know that really, he is so dope.

Halloween // fun cats and pumpkins // art show

2010-08-15T13:05:00.001-04:00

This is Dianne Waldren (Hi Dianne!) and she is the creative force behind "Sew Primitive". It is like a Halloween Willy Wonka, making eye candy.

She is at the Arts on Stage show in Daytona Beach with me today, I think her stuff is fantastic. Wonderfully whimsically and expert craftmanship.

I'm so happy to have met her.

Here's a picture of her booth. So many fun creations.

If you are interested in her work, email me and I'll send you her info.

dawn@dawnschreiner.com

Arts on Stage // Daytona Beach // Art show

2010-08-14T13:17:00.000-04:00

Doodles at the show

Other stuff too!

Art, art and more art // Packing // Lists

2010-08-13T07:59:00.000-04:00

Here are some little magnets I made for the show this weekend. I have been organizing and readying everything for the show. It's just far enough away that, if I forget something, it's forgotten. So I have lists on top of lists. So far, I've slowly been crossing items off. As soon as I do, something else comes to mind and I add a new thing and the list never ends. I better go and start crossing and adding.

Art Show in Daytona // Arts on Stage // have a seat

2010-08-12T10:57:00.000-04:00

here's two little ditty's I've been working on. I should have done a "before" picture, and kick myself that I didn't. These are old (solid) chairs used by school children. When I got them they were pretty beat up, but I have tried to give them new life with a bang up paint job. They'll be at the show this weekend.

Circus peanuts // Banana bread // Banana cake

2010-08-11T10:12:00.000-04:00

I have a weakness for sweets, and the ubiquitous circus peanut is an unfortunate craving.

To try and maintain some semblance of nutrition (marginal, mind you), I am an avid baker and always looking for ways to use foods that might be past their prime in my kitchen. Zucchini, squash, strawberries and many more, have found their way into delicious concoctions. My new favorite is banana cake. I usually make bread or muffins with my bruised fruit, but this sounded too good to pass up.

It ended up being our favorite confection made with bananas.

watercolor // Art Show

2010-08-10T08:26:00.000-04:00

On my recent trip, I really enjoyed painting with watercolors again. I seem to only do it when I am away from home. As I prepare for the Arts On Stage art show, I have less time to spend crafting a daily doodle. So I whipped out the watercolors and did a quick Bonnie & Clyde for Facebook and a candelabra for the blog. I do love fancy candle holders.

I love the blues

2010-08-09T10:00:00.000-04:00

A quick doodle of blues

the Kitten // it mews // cute

2010-08-06T11:00:00.002-04:00

Here's the kitten I told you about. It's wiggly, so's the picture.

Feral cats // kittens // whiskers, the whole bit

2010-08-06T09:30:00.000-04:00

The people that live behind us didn't bother to get their cats fixed, so we have lots of cats and kittens in the neighborhood that are breeding and feral. One of the neighbors has taken it upon herself to catch as many cats or kittens as possible, get their shots and get them fixed. The vets that do take care of them, cut the ears of the cats, so you know which cats have been treated. It seems barbaric, but as all the cats look alike, it would be impossible to tell. I suppose it's a common practice. My daughter decided she wanted to help get the cats fixed (otherwise when they are caught be animal control, they will be euthenised).

Yesterday she caught a kitten, and (you guessed it) it's cute. REALLY cute. My daughter has decided to try and tame the kitten, which appears to be about 4 weeks old. I'll keep you updated. Oy.

2010-08-05T13:36:00.001-04:00

Thursday is chicken doodle day. On my Facebook page, I have the latest installment of Super Bird & Defenseless Chick. That series is winding down to a finish soon. Next I will contuinue my homage to Maitland Historical figures and places. I think. I try and do these series, but I can't seem to get a series done without interrupting it with other doodles. They all eventually find their way done.

#doodle

penguin // art show

2010-08-04T10:28:00.001-04:00

Blast from the past: This is a fella I created for a competition. A studious looking penguin on a skateboard. I have never seen a skateboarder stand on a skateboard like this, but I once saw a bulldog on a skateboard. Had the same body language. This never went anywhere, so I thought I'd give the guy his day in the sun on the blog. I am busily preparing for the kids to go back to school (supplies, mostly, which cost way more than I care to mention). I'm also getting ready to do some major painting for the show coming up. I am excited about the new pieces and to get started on them, but I need to work in my studio to make more room. With everything in there, there's barely enough room for the artist.

Arts on Stage // Daytona Beach // Art show

2010-08-03T09:17:00.000-04:00

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=139688062720382&index=1

The art show I referred to yesterday. I created an event on Facebook. Check out the link and maybe you can stop by and say "hello".

This morning there was an awful fuss from all the wild things. Amidst the cacophony, my chickens stood stock still, for a good long while. The birds and squirrels were announcing the presence of something and the chickens were on high alert. I wish I knew what they were saying.

Nun / Nun Nut / Nut / Art Show

2010-08-02T09:44:00.000-04:00

Here's a whole new batch of sisters from the assembly line. I am excited about an Art Show I'm in. Coming up soon, In Daytona Beach! I'll post specifics about it tomorrow. Needless to say, these holy seed pods are not the only new thing coming out of the factory.

2010-07-31T11:43:00.000-04:00

Today is a big day. The last day of July brought some wonderful news. I got a new tent!! For art shows, not camping. I has sides that zip on or off or you can roll the sides up and snap them up. I am so excited, because many art shows won't allow entry unless you have the right kind of tent. I'm going to go now, and look at my tent.

Emily Bronte's birthday // portrait

2010-07-30T11:50:00.000-04:00

Today is the birthday of Emily Bronte (1818-1848), She wrote Wuthering Heights. One of the greatest love stories ever written, yet she had never had a love of her own. I am forever inspired by her remarkable imagination.

Dog Days of summer/ Smoking / Dog painting

2010-07-29T14:19:00.000-04:00

In my recent travels, one thing that I found very surprising was the sheer volume of folks that still smoke. Someone was desperate enough to risk arrest at the Orlando International Airport by smoking in the restroom. I am still amazed at how many people stand outside (or in certain airports, provided indoor smoking areas -gasp) and smoke. Many of the hotels we stayed in were non smoking (entirely, meaning 'no smoking' rooms only) and even proclaimed to have a 25 foot area around the doors of the hotel to be non smoking. Mostly, that was overlooked. Nevertheless, I enjoyed that brief time of temperate air. In the mountains the air feels cleaner in your lungs and I couldn't get enough of it. Back here in Maitland, I haven't suffered too much thanks to my hard working air conditioner. On that bike ride yesterday, there was a nice breeze and we certainly didn't have to worry about tackling any mountains. So, I'm back to marveling at what Florida has to offer.

Home again, home again, jickety jig

2010-07-28T10:26:00.000-04:00

The kids and I took a bike ride this morning, and the amount of suffering was intense. To make the bike ride more enjoyable, I bribed them with slurpees.

Home Sweet Home

2010-07-27T11:56:00.000-04:00

Coming back from our wonderful trip out west was bittersweet. I love that part of the country and found myself heavy hearted at the fact that my trip was suddenly at an end. I was, on the other hand, thrilled to come home and see my happy house with my sweet husband. He greeted us with this lovely bouquet, wasn't that the sweetest thing?

Silverton, Colorado Town Hall

2010-07-26T11:45:00.000-04:00

Silverton, Colorado Memories // Orlando, Florida home

2010-07-26T11:42:00.001-04:00

The Silverton, Colorado Town Hall has many illustrated pictures in their meeting room. They are done by local children, each child wrote a story and drew a picture about a different local miner. Each story gives a wonderful little synopsis of the miner's life, then and now.

This is the sign right outside the front doors of the town hall. 1908, over a hundred years ago. The old girl has held up quite well.

Albuquerque, New Mexico and Florida

2010-07-23T10:27:00.001-04:00

Yesterday we travelled from Ouray to New mexico to prepare for our day long flying to Florida today. We had time to explore parts of Albuquerque. We saw this guy (and lots of his friends) in a restaurant called "High Noon".

John Wayne // Western comfort paper

2010-07-22T09:32:00.000-04:00

John Wayne is really popular out in these parts, with his image on a myriad of products. Above was my favorite. He filmed True Grit here, and the folks around here will be forever grateful.

Today we travel out of Colorado back to New Mexico to prepare for our trip back home tomorrow.

Ouray Cave // Recognizing Gold

2010-07-21T11:33:00.000-04:00

We have passed this cave many times in Ouray. It holds such mystery. We wonder how deep is it? Is there gold in there? We went to Box Canyon yesterday, and in the visitor's center they had several rocks to choose from to try and detect which one is the real deal. We all chose wrong.

Does this look like gold to you? The rock coming out of the frame is just a rock. But that little one there? Well read this:

History museum // vintage medical equipment // gold panning

2010-07-20T10:14:00.001-04:00

The Ouray Historical Museum has a breathtaking array of old medical equipment, including this dental apparatus.

We panned for gold and copper yesterday, too. We hoped to strike it rich, alas we only found 3 flakes of gold and one tiny copper speck. Upon leaving the gold panning place we saw this sign. The Floridians got a real kick out of this, as we can't imagine that we'd be very good at it.

Ouray, Colorado // Hot springs // vacation

2010-07-19T11:44:00.002-04:00

We are in Ouray, Colorado. We've taken a jeep ride up the rocky mountains and seen marmots and deer. One of the things Ouray is most known for (The main thing being it's the "Little Switzerland of America") is the hot springs. The springs actually have areas ranging from invigoratingly cold to almost hard to take hot. Here's Toby swimming in the warm section, which feels too good to get out of. The air is cool and the water warm. A delightful combination.

We ate at Timberline Deli last night. It has light food fare and we had salad and sandwiches. All delicious. The owner has an easy smile and charming demeanor.

Silverton, Colorado

2010-07-18T13:12:00.001-04:00

Yesterday we went back in time to Silverton, Colorado. There's an old time saloon, a stagecoach and lots of small town charm. Even the benches along the sidewalks are noteworthy. We expected, any minute, to see a band of cowboys come tearing down the dusty streets on horseback.

We ate at Handlebars Restaurant and this fellow hopped above our table.

The place is famous for their delicious hamburgers, elk burgers and buffalo burgers. I had a veggie burger, and although I had heard nothing about it, found it was the best veggie burger I have ever eaten. I will try and spread the word, so the charmer above the table gets some vegetable competition.

Durango to Silverton train // fourteeners // mountain views

2010-07-17T09:41:00.000-04:00

Yesterday we rode the Durango to Silverton Narrow Gauge (to make the hairpin turns) Railroad. It was a wonderful adventure and the scenery was breathtaking. Here is a picture of our conductor ("tickets, tickets, please"). The conductor, the breakman and the engineer had quite a job yesterday. The day was unusually hot and the train started fires along the tracks. I guess this is not an unusual event, as there is an entire water train that follows along after every train, We had to stop twice so the water train could catch up to us, as it was taking a long time to get the fires under control. Probably the hardest working person on the train has to be the fireman. He shovels coal the entire time we are on the train, which is (on a normal day) 3 and a half hours. Yesterday took four and a half hours, due to the fire and water train delays.